The Bobtail, A Curious Breed

Perhaps the name surprised you, but you probably recognized it immediately when looking at the photo. Who has never seen a specimen of this breed, with gray and white fur? They are probably not very common in our country, and for this reason a question arises: where do Bobtails come from?

Origins

Author: Томасина

Originally, this breed was called “Old English Sheepdog”, literally “ancient English sheepdog”; the name was later replaced with the term Bobtail, which means “short tail”, becoming the official name, precisely because this is one of the main characteristics of the breed. The original name, for its part, makes us understand immediately where this breed comes from, England.

In ancient times, sheepdogs’ tails were cut off; in this way, the animals that attacked the flock could not grab the dog by the extremity during the escape. The Bobtail was used as a shepherd and guard dog of the herds, although the first documentation relating to this breed dates back only to the 18th century.

Apparently, the Bobtail was born from the crossing between the breeds of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, the Border Collies and the Poodles, thus generating one of the noblest and softest breeds that exist.

The first Bobtail was presented in 1873, during a dog show; after seven years he was recognized by the Kennel Club, which helped found the breed’s first club. Let’s find out some more data about this animal together.

Physical traits

The Bobtail is muscular and intelligent. It is endowed with great vitality and, when viewed from above, its body resembles a pear. This dog’s way of walking is truly original.

Its head is voluminous and square. The muzzle measures half the total length of the head; the nose is large and black, and the nostrils wide.

As for the eyes, they are dark or gray, although it is possible to find blue-eyed specimens; however, having light eyes is considered a defect in the Bobtail. They have a stocky body, which makes them not particularly athletic dogs.

The only complicated aspect in the care of this breed is their coat: long, frayed, slightly thick and wavy, it requires a lot of care, so that it does not become full of knots.

But let’s immediately see one of the aspects that most interests us: their character.

Character

Like so many other dog breeds, Bobtails are social and affectionate.  They are dogs with a great adaptability. Anyone who has had one can confirm it. We have often told you that any dog ​​would do anything for its owner; Bobtails are extremely loyal and protective.

They adapt perfectly to family life and possess great deductive and observation skills. They are also excellent babysitters for the little ones! They are suitable for the guard and for the company. Their goal is to always make you happy; they are also extremely obedient.

These are dogs with an incredible spirit of observation, developed to the point that members of this breed are known for never needing extraordinary training. They observe and assimilate. If they see that a family member is sad or angry, they will work hard until they can make him smile.

Doesn’t it seem like a very special animal to you? If you are thinking of adopting a dog that does not require too much care, and that gives you more than it asks for in return, do not think too much about it: choose a Bobtail, you will not regret it!

Image courtesy of Томасина.